In its first meeting since Hamas launched a surprise attack on Israel, igniting a war in the Middle East, the Huntsville city council expressed its support for Israel, a longtime ally of the United States.

The one-page resolution was sponsored by Bill Kling, the dean of the city council, and passed unanimously at Thursday’s meeting.

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The resolution proclaims that Mayor Tommy Battle and the city council “express great concern and support Israel in its efforts to defend itself. We stand unified and offer our sincerest thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.”

The relevance of the resolution is to offer support for Huntsville’s Jewish community.

“WHEREAS, this senseless act of violence that has devasted the lives of many, weighs heavy on our hearts, and we wish to offer support and comfort to Israel and our local Jewish community by coming together in this time of need,” the resolution said. “It is a disaster of unimaginable proportions for the State of Israel and for the many families whose lives will never be the same. The City of Huntsville stands in solidarity with the state of Israel and all those seeking peace in this time of sorrow; and

“WHEREAS, as the situation is expected to escalate and more lives are to face inconceivable challenges, we hope for there to soon be a light in the darkness for the citizens of Israel. The City of Huntsville acknowledges this will be a long and difficult war but even when wounded, Israel’s history of resiliency stands on display. The fierce and determined people of Israel will remain strong and overcome this tragedy.”

The federal government has said 27 Americans have died in the violence since the Hamas attack on Israel on Oct. 7. An undetermined number of Americans have been taken hostage.